Walking the Rochdale Canal from Walsden to Todmorden

In the heart of Northern England, winding through valleys and past old mill towns, lies the Rochdale Canal. More than just a waterway, it's a testament to the region's industrial heritage, a ribbon of water that once powered the economy and has since been reborn as a haven for walkers and nature lovers. Completed in 1804, this historic canal once served as a vital trade route, connecting the bustling hubs of Sowerby Bridge and Manchester.

For a time, the canal fell into disuse and disrepair, officially closing in 1952. Sections became overgrown, and some were even filled in, a quiet echo of the end of an era. But thanks to a dedicated restoration effort, the canal was fully reopened in 2002, giving new life to this historic corridor.

Inspired by this story of rebirth, I took a walk along a particularly scenic stretch of the canal in November 2013, trekking approximately 1.5 miles from Walsden to Todmorden. The photos, taken on a Samsung Galaxy Tablet, capture the essence of a tranquil autumn day on the towpath.

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A Walk Through Autumn

The journey revealed a landscape painted in the golden hues of autumn. The canal waters, a deep, reflective blue, mirrored the clear sky and the scattered clouds. Along the banks, fallen leaves created a vibrant carpet of gold and red, rustling underfoot.

The walk passes a number of fascinating landmarks. Pinnel Lock 26 and Smithyholm Lock 25 are working relics of the canal's past, their weathered stone and wooden gates standing strong against the flow of time. Further along, the towering Gauholme Railway Viaduct looms over the canal, a striking black-and-white image that shows the intersection of two different transport histories.

The path also winds through the charming village of Walsden, where the spire of St. Peter's Church rises elegantly above the trees and rooftops, a quiet sentinel watching over the canal. The walk ends as you approach Todmorden, with the canal curving past old mill buildings, their red brick and stone a warm contrast to the green and gold of the surrounding hills.

Along the way, I stumbled upon a curious, carved stone chair, a unique piece of art that invites walkers to pause and reflect on the journey. This simple seat embodies the spirit of the canal today: a place of peace, reflection, and quiet beauty.

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Gauxholme Viaduct

Pinnel Lock

Smithyholm Lock

Walsden from the canal, St Peter's Church seen in the distance.

This stone chair was near Gauxholme Locks, no idea if it is still there.

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A Glimpse Through Time: Exploring Northern England's Past, Brotton, Skipton and Walsden

 Ever wonder what life was like in your local village decades or even centuries ago? There's something truly captivating about seeing old photographs and postcards that transport you back in time. I've been diving into my collection of images, both personally taken and carefully gathered, to create a series of video slideshows that offer a unique look at three distinct Northern English locations.

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Brotton: From Domesday to Decline

First up, we travel to Brotton, a village nestled in the borough of Redcar and Cleveland. With a history stretching back before the 1086 Domesday Book – its name literally meaning "Brook Farm" – Brotton holds centuries of stories within its ancient boundaries.

Today, Brotton has a population of around 5,400, a significant decrease from its peak. This decline directly correlates with the fading of its once-thriving ironstone mining industry. The early 20th century saw a downturn, and by 1954, the last mine had closed its doors. The images in this slideshow are a fascinating mix of collected postcards and public domain treasures, offering a visual narrative of Brotton's past.

Skipton: A Market Town's Enduring Charm

Next, we journey to Skipton, a bustling market town in North Yorkshire. Home to approximately 14,600 residents, Skipton is a hub of activity, intersected by the River Aire, the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, and the Airedale Railway Line.

My slideshow of Skipton is another collection built from vintage postcards I've gathered over time. These images capture the essence of a vibrant market town, showcasing its enduring charm and how its key transportation routes have shaped its development.

Walsden: A West Yorkshire Village with Lancashire Roots

Finally, we head to Walsden, a village in the Metropolitan Borough of Calderdale, West Yorkshire. With a population of roughly 5,200, Walsden is characterized by the flow of Walsden Water (which feeds into the River Calder), the Rochdale Canal, and the A6033 Rochdale Road. It even boasts its own railway station on the Caldervale Line.

What's particularly interesting about Walsden is its historical identity. While it's now firmly part of West Yorkshire, it was once historically part of Lancashire and administered by Rochdale Corporation. Unlike the other two slideshows, all the pictures in the Walsden video were taken by me in August 2017, offering a more contemporary, yet still reflective, look at the village.

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St Peter's Church, Walsden

Nestled amidst the picturesque landscape, visible from the tranquil waters of the Rochdale Canal, stands the elegant spire of St. Peter's Church in Walsden. A silent sentinel, it marks a spot steeped in history, resilience, and community spirit. I first encountered this striking landmark on a canal-side stroll back on August 27th, 2017, its distinctive outline drawing me in for a closer look at the locked-up grounds. What I uncovered about its past is a testament to both grand Victorian ambition and the enduring power of local devotion.

The "Million Pound Church" Legacy: A National Endeavour

St. Peter's Church, which first opened its doors on August 7th, 1848, was no ordinary parish church. It was part of a remarkable national initiative – the "Million Pound Churches." This ambitious project was born from the 1820 Church Building Act, a parliamentary response to the rapid industrialisation and urban growth that had left many burgeoning towns, like Walsden, with inadequate places of worship.

Imagine the foresight: an act of parliament, financed by a blend of government and public funds, dedicated to addressing the spiritual needs of a changing nation. These churches, though often built to very tight budgets, were designed to be beacons of faith in newly developing communities. St. Peter's stands as a tangible link to this fascinating chapter in British social and architectural history.

A Foundation of Generosity and a Spire of Distinction

The very genesis of St. Peter's Church speaks of local philanthropy. The foundation stone was proudly laid in July 1846 by John Crossley, a man whose generosity extended to donating the very land upon which the church would rise. It's a reminder that even grand national schemes often relied on the vital contributions of individuals.

Sixteen years after its initial opening, in 1864, a significant architectural addition graced the church: its magnificent spire. This elegant structure, now a Grade II listed building, is not just a beautiful piece of design; it holds a profound significance. As fate would have it, it is virtually all that remains of the original edifice after a devastating event.

The Fiery Trial of 1948: A Community Rises

The year 1948, exactly a century after its grand opening, brought an unimaginable tragedy to St. Peter's. In May of that year, a fierce fire ravaged much of the building, destroying countless irreplaceable elements, including its beautiful windows. In a poignant detail, the church clock remarkably continued to function throughout the blaze, even striking midnight as the inferno raged. It's a vivid image, a symbol of time marching on even in the face of immense destruction.

Adding to the heartache, the church lacked adequate insurance – a common vulnerability for many public buildings of that era. This meant that the task of rebuilding fell squarely on the shoulders of the local community and the dedicated parishioners. And rise they did! Through incredible collective effort, fundraising drives, and an unwavering commitment, the people of Walsden pieced their beloved church back together. It's a powerful narrative of resilience, a testament to how adversity can forge an even stronger sense of community. On March 10th, 1956, after years of painstaking work and tireless fundraising, St. Peter's Church was proudly re-consecrated, reborn from its ashes.

A Lingering Legacy

Today, the spire of St. Peter's Church continues to grace the Walsden skyline, a beacon of history, a monument to a national initiative, and a powerful symbol of local determination. My own encounter with it from the Rochdale Canal was just a brief snapshot, but the story behind its walls, and indeed its very survival, is one that speaks volumes about faith, community, and the enduring spirit of a place. It reminds us that even seemingly quiet architectural landmarks often hold a rich tapestry of human stories, waiting to be discovered.

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Exploring Walsden: A Station Through Time

Walsden Railway Station, nestled amidst the dramatic Pennine landscape, might seem like a quiet outpost today, but its history is a fascinating tapestry woven with tales of Victorian ambition, wartime drama, and modern resurgence. Though now firmly in West Yorkshire, Walsden's railway story began when it was still part of Lancashire, a testament to the ever-shifting administrative boundaries that define our regions.

A Glimpse into the Past: The Original Station (1845-1961)

The very first Walsden station opened its doors in 1845, a product of the burgeoning railway era that connected communities and fuelled industrial growth. For over a century, it served the village, a vital link for passengers and goods. However, the post-war economic austerity of the early 1960s brought about widespread railway closures, and Walsden, sadly, was not spared. In August 1961, the station shut its doors for good, and the physical structures were swiftly demolished, leaving behind only echoes of its past.

Yet, a tangible piece of that original station endures: a sturdy metal footbridge, erected in 1890. This venerable structure, now providing a crucial connection between the platforms of the current station, is a silent witness to a bygone era. It's a poignant reminder that while buildings may fall, some elements, built with Victorian longevity in mind, can transcend generations. The original station itself was located to the west of this footbridge, stretching towards the entrance of the impressive Winterbutlee Tunnel.

A Troubled Crossing and a Wartime Bombing

The original station also featured a level crossing, a common feature of early railways but one that often brought its own dangers. Indeed, Walsden's crossing was, regrettably, the scene of several injuries and even deaths. The removal of this crossing paved the way for the current station's construction, a move that undoubtedly improved safety for both railway users and local residents.

Perhaps one of the most surprising anecdotes from Walsden's railway past is its unfortunate distinction as the only place in the greater Todmorden area to be bombed during the Second World War. While details are scarce in the provided text, this tidbit hints at the far-reaching impact of the conflict, even on seemingly remote Pennine communities.

Adding to the station's ongoing challenges, a stream runs directly underneath the station, close to the iron bridge. This natural feature, while picturesque, has a less charming side effect: during heavy rains, the station and the line are prone to flooding, a persistent battle against the elements for Network Rail and station users alike.

The Rebirth: Walsden's Current Station (1990-Present)

After nearly three decades of dormancy, Walsden Railway Station was reborn. In September 1990, a new station opened its platforms a few metres east of the original site. This resurgence was a testament to the growing recognition of the importance of local rail links, connecting communities and offering sustainable transport options.

Today, Walsden is an unstaffed station, characteristic of many smaller stops on the network. While facilities are limited to small shelters for protection from the notoriously unpredictable Pennine weather, modern conveniences have been introduced. Electronic information boards keep passengers updated, and ticket machines provide easy access to fares.

The station's viability is clear in its passenger figures. In 2017-18, Walsden averaged approximately 2,100 passengers per week, a healthy number for a village station and a strong indicator of its continued value to the community.

Winterbutlee Tunnel: A Feat of Victorian Engineering

No discussion of Walsden Railway Station would be complete without mentioning the impressive Winterbutlee Tunnel. Located to the west of the station, this 279-metre long tunnel is a remarkable feat of Victorian engineering. It was opened by the Manchester & Leeds Railway Company in 1841, a crucial component of the line that completed the connection between Todmorden and Littleborough. The tunnel stands as a permanent monument to the ambition and skill of the railway pioneers who carved routes through the challenging Pennine terrain.

A Photographer's Eye: Capturing Walsden

The provided information also gives us a glimpse into the art of capturing the station. The accompanying pictures, taken on August 27th, 2017, with a Nikon D3300 camera, offer a specific date and equipment detail. This reminds us that beyond the historical facts and figures, these locations are also subjects of contemporary interest, inspiring photographers to document their beauty and utility.

Walsden Railway Station, therefore, is more than just a stop on the line. It's a microcosm of railway history, a resilient survivor of closures, and a vital link in the modern transport network. From its Victorian origins to its present-day operations, it stands as a testament to the enduring power of the railways to connect people and shape landscapes.

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Manchester direction, the bridge is all that remains of the original station, it was built in 1890. Winterbuttlee Tunnel can be seen beyond.

Winterbuttlee Tunnel from the 1890 Bridge. The original Walsden Station was sighted near the tunnels entrance.

The 1890 metal footbridge is all that remains of the original station at Walsden. There used to be a level crossing where the gate is.

British Rail Class 144 Pacer train at the Leeds bound platform 2.

The steps up and over the 1890 bridge.

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Unveiling Calderdale's Railway Legacy: A New Photo Slideshow

I'm excited to share my latest YouTube creation, "Train Stations of the Calder Valley" – a new slideshow that takes you on a photographic tour of every active railway station in Calderdale. This collection features images I've taken since 2013, offering a contemporary look at these historic transport links.

The Calder Valley's railway network has played a crucial role in shaping our region, and these stations are living testaments to that rich history. From their original opening dates to significant redevelopments, each station tells a unique story.

In the video, you'll find these iconic stations:

• Brighouse Railway Station: First opened in 1840, it experienced a temporary closure in 1970 before being reopened in 2000, highlighting its continued importance.
• Halifax Railway Station: Established in 1844, its current more convenient location was adopted in 1855.
• Hebden Bridge Railway Station: A true survivor, it has been serving passengers continuously since 1840.
• Mytholmroyd Railway Station: Opened in 1841 and has seen significant changes, with rebuilds in 1871 and the 1980s adapting it for modern use.
• Sowerby Bridge Railway Station: Operating since 1840, its present layout was established in 1876 to improve efficiency.
• Todmorden Railway Station: A constant presence on the line since 1841.
• Walsden Railway Station: Initially opened in 1845, it closed in 1961 but was thankfully reopened in 1990, reconnecting the community.

Ready to explore? Watch "Train Stations of the Calder Valley" now!

Looking ahead, the Calder Valley's rail network is on track for exciting expansion! I'm particularly keen to feature Elland Station when it reopens in 2022, and there's also the promising prospect of Hipperholme Station and Cornholme (Portsmouth) Station potentially coming back into service. These developments would truly enhance local connectivity.

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Images from Calderdale. A YouTube Slideshow.

Images from Calderdale is a YouTube slideshow I uploaded today set to music. It features 60 pictures taken within the boundaries of Calderdale from Walsden to Brighouse, and from Warley to Norland. They were all taken over a period starting in 2013 up to December 2017 and include many notable local landmarks.

A full list of place names can be found underneath the slideshow on YouTube. The images refresh every 8 seconds and has a background soundtrack, please mute the music if not to your taste.

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The video remains the copyright of Colin Green.

The Summit Tunnel: A Testament to Victorian Engineering and Resilience

The Pennines, a formidable range of hills in Northern England, presented a significant obstacle to the burgeoning railway network of the 19th century. But where there's a will, there's a way, and the Victorians, with their characteristic ingenuity, carved a path through the heart of these hills: the Summit Tunnel. This 1.6-mile marvel of engineering, connecting Littleborough in Greater Manchester with Walsden in West Yorkshire, stands as a testament to the vision and determination of its builders, and a fascinating story of both triumph and challenge.

Construction of the Summit Tunnel began in 1837 under the watchful eye of the legendary George Stephenson. This ambitious project aimed to create a crucial rail link between the industrial powerhouses of Leeds and Manchester. The sheer scale of the undertaking is staggering. Around a thousand navvies toiled for four years, excavating through the unforgiving terrain. Tragically, nine men lost their lives during the construction, a stark reminder of the dangers faced by these pioneering workers.

The numbers involved in the tunnel's construction are truly impressive: 23 million bricks and 8,000 tonnes of concrete were used. The final cost, a staggering £285,000, significantly overran the initial budget of £97,000, highlighting the challenges inherent in such a monumental task. Upon its opening in 1841, the Summit Tunnel briefly held the title of the longest tunnel in the world, a testament to Stephenson's ambition and skill. He considered it his greatest piece of railway engineering, famously declaring, "I stake my reputation and my head that the tunnel will never fail so as to injure any human life."

For nearly a century and a half, the tunnel served as a vital artery, facilitating the movement of people and goods across the Pennines. Its continuous service was only interrupted by a dramatic event in 1984. A goods train carrying petrol tankers derailed within the tunnel, triggering a devastating fire. The inferno raged for two days, capturing national attention and raising serious concerns about the tunnel's structural integrity. The fire brigade battled tirelessly to bring the blaze under control, finally issuing the stop signal on Christmas Eve. The aftermath saw the tunnel closed for eight months.

The fire, while dramatic, ultimately revealed the resilience of Stephenson's masterpiece. Despite the intense heat, the brick lining held firm, requiring only minimal repairs. Approximately half a mile of track and the electrical services needed replacing, and some of the air shafts required reinforcement. Before the tunnel was reopened, local residents were given the opportunity to walk through it, a gesture that underscored the community's connection to this vital piece of infrastructure. Train services between Todmorden and Littleborough resumed on August 19, 1985.

The Summit Tunnel stands as a powerful symbol of Victorian engineering prowess. It's a story of vision, hard work, tragedy, and ultimately, resilience. From its construction in the 19th century to its dramatic encounter with fire in the 20th, the tunnel has played a crucial role in the history of the region. It continues to serve as a vital transportation link today, a testament to the enduring legacy of George Stephenson and the men who built this remarkable feat of engineering.

The pictures below were taken with a Samsung Galaxy Tablet on November 14, 2013. The feature is the tunnel's eastern portal, a few of the tunnel's air shafts, and a number taken from the hills above the tunnel looking down into the valley and landscapes below. Clicking any image should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

The following 2 short films were taken at the tunnels Northern (Western) portal.

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This shows a Leeds bound train leaving the tunnel in the direction of Walsden. It was filmed in August 2017.

This was filmed in November 2013 and shows a Manchester bound pacer train entering the tunnel.

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All the pictures and video remain the copyright of Colin Green.